Essential Accessories for Your New Phone

Difficulty
Beginner
Tested on
iOS 18.4 - iPhone 15 Pro
You will need
New smartphone, budget allocation, compatibility list

Step by step

  1. 1 min

    Prioritize high-impact protection

    A tempered glass screen protector is the most critical accessory for preventing permanent display scratches and micro-abrasions. Pair this with a case that features raised lips around the camera array and the perimeter of the screen to absorb kinetic energy during drops.

    Note: Opt for cases with MIL-STD-810G certification for guaranteed drop protection.
  2. 1 min

    Select a high-wattage power adapter

    Modern phones support fast-charging standards that require a USB-C Power Delivery (PD) adapter. Choose a GaN charger that matches or exceeds your device's maximum input wattage, typically 30W for most current flagships, to ensure the shortest possible charging cycles.

    Note: GaN technology reduces heat generation during the charging process.
  3. 30 sec

    Standardize your cable connectivity

    Upgrade to a braided USB-C to USB-C cable that supports data transfer speeds of at least 10Gbps and a power throughput of 60W or higher. Braided nylon construction significantly increases cable lifespan by preventing fraying at the stress-relief points near the connectors.

    Note: Look for cables with the USB-IF certification logo.
  4. 1 min

    Determine external storage requirements

    If you record high-resolution video or store large media libraries, acquire a compact USB-C flash drive or a portable SSD. Ensure the drive supports the same data transfer protocol as your phone's port to allow for direct recording or seamless file backups without cloud dependency.

    Note: Format external drives to exFAT to ensure cross-platform compatibility.
  5. 30 sec

    Evaluate wireless audio hardware

    Select earbuds or headphones that support the high-bitrate codecs native to your device, such as AAC, LDAC, or aptX. If you rely on wired audio, verify the need for a high-fidelity USB-C to 3.5mm DAC dongle to maintain signal integrity from the digital output.

    Note: Active Noise Cancellation is essential for commuters to maintain lower, safer volume levels.